Emma Thompson in talks to appear in Beauty and the Beast

Oscar-winning actress Emma Thompson is reportedly in discussions to star in the live action film version of Disney's 'Beauty and the Beast'

Emma Thompson is in talks to star in the live action film version of Disney's 'Beauty and the Beast'.

The 55-year-old star is wanted to play the role of Mrs Potts, the housekeeper who's turned into a teapot in the iconic story, the Daily Mail newspaper reports.

Mrs Potts assists Belle - the heroine of the story, played by Emma Watson - to sort out her romantic stresses.

The film's director Bill Condon has been working with composer Alan Menken to determine which songs from the 1991 animated movie will make the cut in the eagerly-awaited live action film.

Last month, meanwhile, Emma Watson revealed she'd been cast in the role of Belle and had already started singing lessons in preparation for the musical role.

Writing on her Facebook page, Emma said: "I'm finally able to tell you... that I will be playing Belle in Disney's new live-action Beauty and the Beast! It was such a big part of my growing up, it almost feels surreal that I'll get to dance to 'Be Our Guest' and sing 'Something There'.

"My six year old self is on the ceiling - heart bursting. Time to start some singing lessons. I can't wait for you to see it. Emma xx"

Belle (Watson) is forced to live with a Beast (Stevens) in this live-action retelling of the 1991 blockbuster. Watson is winsome but feisty, Evans as Gaston is splendid of voice and hilariously odious, McGregor brings much joie de vivre to ‘Be Our Guest’, and it’s an enchantingly realised delight.